KORESHAN STATE HISTORIC SITE Koreshan... · 2019. 12. 19. · Koreshan State Historic Site as a...

KORESHAN STATE HISTORIC SITE

UNIT MANAGEMENT PLAN

APPROVED

STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

Division of Recreation and Parks

AUGUST 6, 2003

Department of Environmental Protection

Jeb Bush Governor

Marjorie Stoneman Douglas Building 3900 Commonwealth Boulevard, MS 140

Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3000

David B. Struhs Secretary

“More Protection, Less Process”

Printed on recycled paper.

August 6, 2003 Ms. BryAnne White Division of Recreation and Parks Office of Park Planning, M.S. 525 3900 Commonwealth Blvd. Tallahassee, Florida 32399 Re: Koreshan State Historic Site Lease # 3630 Ms. White: On August 6, 2003, the Office of Environmental Services, acting as agent for the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund, approved the management plan for Koreshan State Historic Site. Pursuant to Section 253.034, Florida Statutes, and Chapter 18-2, Florida Administrative Code this plan’s ten-year update will be due on August 6, 2013. Approval of this land management plan does not waive the authority or jurisdiction of any governmental entity that may have an interest in this project. Implementation of any upland activities proposed by this management plan may require a permit or other authorization from federal and state agencies having regulatory jurisdiction over those particular activities. Please forward copies of all permits to this office upon issuance.

Sincerely,

Delmas T. Barber Delmas T. Barber, OMC Manager Office of Environmental Services Division of State Lands

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 1

PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF PLAN 1

MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OVERVIEW 3

Management Authority And Responsibility 3

Park Goals And Objectives 4

Management Coordination 6

Public Participation 7

Other Designations 7

RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMPONENT

INTRODUCTION 9

RESOURCE DESCRIPTION AND ASSESSMENT 9

Natural Resources 9

Cultural Resources 14

RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM 29

Special Management Considerations 29

Management Needs And Problems 30

Management Objectives 33

Management Measures For Natural Resources 33

Management Measures For Cultural Resources 40

Research Needs 42

Resource Management Schedule 43

Land Management Review 43

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LAND USE COMPONENT

INTRODUCTION 45

EXTERNAL CONDITIONS 45

Existing Use Of Adjacent Lands 45

Planned Use Of Adjacent Lands 46

PROPERTY ANALYSIS 46

Recreation Resource Elements 46

Assessment Of Use 47

CONCEPTUAL LAND USE PLAN 50

Potential Uses And Proposed Facilities 50

Facilities Development 55

Existing Use And Optimum Carrying Capacity 55

Optimum Boundary 56

TABLE

TABLE 1 - Existing Use And Optimum Carrying Capacity 55

LIST OF ADDENDA

ADDENDUM 1

Acquisition History and Advisory Group Staff Report A 1 - 1

ADDENDUM 2

References Cited A 2 - 1

ADDENDUM 3

Soil Descriptions A 3 - 1 ADDENDUM 4

Plant And Animal List A 4 - 1

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ADDENDUM 5

Designated Species List A 5 - 1

ADDENDUM 6

Priority Schedule and Cost Estimates A 6 - 1

ADDENDUM 7 Land Management Review A 7 - 1

MAPS Vicinity Map 2

Soils Map 11

Natural Communities Map 13

Base Map 48

Conceptual Land Use Plan 51

Optimum Boundary Map 57

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INTRODUCTION Koreshan State Historic Site is located in Lee County (see Vicinity Map). The historic site is on the corner of Corkscrew Road and U.S. Highway 41, two miles west of Interstate 75. The vicinity map also reflects significant land and water resources existing near the park. Two additional parcels are located at the mouth of the Estero River and are not accessible by road. For this plan, park acreage has been calculated based on the composition of natural communities, in addition to ruderal and developed areas. Currently the park contains 140.82 uplands and 53.76 wetland/submerged acres. At Koreshan State Historic Site public outdoor recreation and conservation is the designated single use of the property. There are no legislative or executive directives that constrain the use of this property. The park was acquired in September 1961 as a donation from the last remaining members of the Koreshan Unity, in exchange for a lifetime tenancy agreement. Obligations associated with the tenancy agreement were fulfilled in August 1982 (see Addendum 1). PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE PLAN This plan serves as the basic statement of policy and direction for the management of Koreshan State Historic Site as a unit of Florida's state park system. It identifies the objectives, criteria and standards that guide each aspect of park administration, and sets forth the specific measures that will be implemented to meet management objectives. The plan is intended to meet the requirements of Sections 253.034 and 259.032, Florida Statutes, Chapter 18-2, Florida Administrative Code, and intended to be consistent with the State Lands Management Plan. With approval, this management plan will supercede and replace the current approved plan of June 1, 2000. All development and resource alteration encompassed in this plan is subject to the granting of appropriate permits; easements, licenses, and other required legal instruments. Approval of the management plan does not constitute an exemption from complying with the appropriate local, state, or federal agencies. This plan is also intended to meet the requirements for beach and shore preservation, as defined in Chapter 161, Florida Statutes, and Chapters 62B-33, 62B-36 and 62R-49, Florida Administrative Code. The plan consists of two interrelated components. Each component corresponds to a particular aspect of the administration of the park. The resource management component provides a detailed inventory and assessment of the natural and cultural resources of the park. Resource management problems and needs are identified, and specific management objectives are established for each resource type. This component provides guidance on the application of such measures as prescribed burning, exotic species removal, and restoration of natural conditions. The land use component is the recreational resource allocation plan for the unit. Based on considerations such as access, population, and adjacent land uses, an optimum allocation of the physical space of the park is made, locating use areas and proposing types of facilities and volume of use to be provided. In the development of this plan, the potential of the park to accommodate secondary management purposes (“multiple uses”) was analyzed. These secondary purposes were considered within the context of the Division’s statutory responsibilities and an analysis of the resource needs and values of the park. This analysis considered the park natural and cultural resources, management needs, aesthetic values, visitation, and visitor experiences.

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For this park, it was determined that no secondary purposes could be accommodated in a manner that would not interfere with the primary purpose of resource-based outdoor recreation and conservation. Uses such as, water resource development projects, water supply projects, stormwater management projects, linear facilities and sustainable agriculture and forestry (other than those forest management activities specifically identified in this plan) are not consistent with this plan or the management purposes of the park and should be discouraged. The potential for generating revenue to enhance management was also analyzed. Visitor fees and charges are the principal source of revenue generated by the park. It was determined that multiple-use management activities would not be appropriate as a means of generating revenues for land management. Instead, techniques such as entrance fees, concessions, and similar measures will be employed on a case-by-case basis as a means of supplementing park management funding. The use of private land managers to facilitate restoration and management of this unit was also analyzed. Decisions regarding this type of management (such as outsourcing, contracting with the private sector, use of volunteers, etc.) will be made on a case-by-case basis as necessity dictates. MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Management Authority and Responsibility In accordance with Chapter 258, Florida Statutes, and Chapter 62D-2, Florida Administrative Code, the Division of Recreation and Parks (DRP) is charged with the responsibility of developing and operating Florida's recreation and parks system. These are administered in accordance with the following policy:

It shall be the policy of the Division of Recreation and Parks to promote the state park system for the use, enjoyment, and benefit of the people of Florida and visitors; to acquire typical portions of the original domain of the state which will be accessible to all of the people, and of such character as to emblemize the state's natural values; conserve these natural values for all time; administer the development, use and maintenance of these lands and render such public service in so doing, in such a manner as to enable the people of Florida and visitors to enjoy these values without depleting them; to contribute materially to the development of a strong mental, moral, and physical fiber in the people; to provide for perpetual preservation of historic sites and memorials of statewide significance and interpretation of their history to the people; to contribute to the tourist appeal of Florida.

The Trustees have also granted management authority of certain sovereign submerged lands to the Division under Management Agreement MA 68-086 (as amended January 19, 1988). The management area includes a 400-foot zone from the edge of mean high water where a park boundary borders sovereign submerged lands fronting beaches, bays, estuarine areas, rivers or streams. Where emergent wetland vegetation exists, the zone extends waterward 400 feet beyond the vegetation. The agreement is intended to provide additional protection to resources of the park and nearshore areas and to provide authority to manage activities that could adversely impact public recreational uses. Many operating procedures are standard system wide and are set by policy. These procedures are outlined in the Division Operations Procedures Manual (OPM) and cover such areas as personnel management, uniforms and personal appearance, training, signs, communications, fiscal procedures, interpretation, concessions, camping regulations, resource management, law enforcement, protection, safety and maintenance.

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/parks/os/opm.htm

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In the management of Koreshan State Historic Site, primary emphasis is placed on protection and maintenance of the historic site for long-term public enjoyment. Program emphasis is directed toward the interpretation of the historic site for general public enjoyment.

Park Goals and Objectives The following park goals and objectives express the Division long-term intent in managing the state park. At the beginning of the process to update this management plan, the Division reviewed the goals and objectives of the previous plan to determine if they remain meaningful and practical and should be included in the updated plan. This process ensures that the goals and objectives for the park remain relevant over time. Estimates are developed for the funding and staff resources needed to implement the management plan based on these goals, objectives and priority management activities. Funding priorities for all state park management and development activities are reviewed each year as part of the Division legislative budget process. The Division prepares an annual legislative budget request based on the priorities established for the entire state park system. The Division also aggressively pursues a wide range of other funds and staffing resources, such as grants, volunteers, and partnerships with agencies, local governments and the private sector, for supplementing normal legislative appropriations to address unmet needs. The ability of the Division to implement the specific goals, objectives and priority actions identified in this plan will be determined by the availability of funding resources for these purposes. Natural and Cultural Resources 1. Identify, preserve and protect the site’s cultural resources.

A. Continue implementation of program to restore historic structures and grounds features as recommended in March 2000 “Koreshan State Historic Site Unit Management Plan”.

B. Develop and implement written plans for maintenance of historic structures and Koreshan-introduced features within the historic district.

C. Adopt a Scope of Collections Statement and develop a Collections Management Plan.

D. Produce Historic Structures Reports, which comply with established standards for stabilization, rehabilitation and restoration of cultural resources, before funding major work on any historic structure or feature.

E. Initiate interagency project with the DHR and FDOT to develop a historical structure report for the New Store and Art Hall due to potential for negative impacts on the structures during work on U.S. Highway 41.

F. Implement the recommendations outlined in the November 2000 historic structures report “The New Store, A Restoration Approach And Preservation Plan.” Purchase a fireproof safe for the collection storage facility.

G. Facilitate curatorial staffing needs with an additional Career Service position or recurring OPS funding.

H. Continue the integrated termite and pest management program in the Historic District.

I. Establish preservation alliances with area historic sites and museums. J. Protect the settlement from the impact of impending construction on U.S. Highway

41, as well as the visual and auditory impact of the road by constructing a sound barrier and vegetative buffer between the Art Hall and the New Store.

K. Rebuild the Seminole Chickee, built by the Seminoles for the Koreshans during the historic period.

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L. Coordinate with the FDOT, the DHR, and U.S. Department of the Interior on implementation of protection measures to insure adequate protection of the cultural resource features during the expansion of U.S. Highway 41.

2. Improve administrative aspects of cultural resources management at the site. A. Using collection management software, compatible to standardized system software,

continue to assemble, catalog and store existing information about the site’s cultural resources.

B. Maintain a collections management program based on standards in the Division Operating Procedures Manual.

3. Implement park management practices that promote historic site integrity and provide site security.

A. Preserve cultural and natural landscapes by establishing vegetative buffers to screen the site from internal support facilities and intrusions of development on adjacent lands.

B. Move or bury overhead lines that extend through the historic settlement and establish underground communication, electrical and water access for each building

C. Increase security service to install a fire alarm system and an intrusion alarm system for each structure. Alarm systems must be connected to local fire department and law enforcement by automatic dialer.

4. Implement a cyclical maintenance plan for day-to-day operations within the historic settlement.

A. Develop and maintain building records of activities associated with each individual structure and collection object.

B. Develop a history of resource management activities and review work project and purchasing records.

5. Implement management program for horticultural resources. A. Develop a vegetation management plan to facilitate restoration of the cultural

landscape in the historic settlement and in other areas important for site interpretation.

B. Maintain a plant nursery to propagate samples of all garden plant materials and important tree varieties.

C. Establish a cyclical maintenance program for the existing ornamental resources in the historic district.

D. Contract qualified lawn maintenance service to maintenance program. E. Identify irrigation needs in coordination with development of water system

installation. Utilize xeriscape techniques when ever possible and research how Koreshans dealt with this issue.

F. Monitor invasive character of ornamental plant species associated with the historic district to prevent the spread of unwanted plant materials into natural areas of the park.

6. Preserve and actively manage the natural resources at Koreshan State Historic Site. A. Continue utilizing prescribed fire in appropriate natural communities. B. Continue removal of exotic invasive plant species. C. Implement plan to create more natural contours and vegetative features around the

borrow pits. D. Continue to document daily weather via an on-site remote weather station.

Recreational Goals 7. Continue to provide quality resource based outdoor recreational and interpretive

programs and facilities at the state park. A. Continue to schedule special events such as holiday festivals, living history

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programs, concerts and cultural demonstrations. B. Continue training curriculum and provide training opportunities for staff and

volunteers to encourage developing and presenting quality interpretive programs. C. Maintain overnight accommodations. D. Maintain day use opportunities for picnicking, fishing, hiking, nature observation

and boat launching. 8. Seek funding to expand recreational and interpretive opportunities through the

improvement of programs and the development of new use areas and facilities, as outlined in this management plan.

A. Enhance interpretive opportunities by building a visitor center to house exhibits, orient and create a transitional experience for visitors, and provide office space for volunteers and staff.

B. Expand the trail system utilizing existing park roads and firebreaks, providing a link from the campground/ day use area to the historic district and a link to existing sidewalks outside the site.

C. Upgrade the day-use area by replacing the restroom and constructing a picnic shelter.

D. Upgrade the campground by expanding the restroom facilities. E. Upgrade the boat ramp. F. Enhance the self-guided and guided tours to interpret the utopian community.

Park Administration/Operations 9. Provide efficient and effective management of park resources and facilities while

maintaining a high level of visitor service. A. Seek funding to construct additional support facilities including a shop, storage

facilities and administrative office. 1.) Research potential funding sources for the restoration of the historic district.

B. Continue to upgrade the existing facilities to assure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

C. Assure that appropriate training is provided to all staff in visitor services, park information, and emergency procedures.

D. Maintain high maintenance standards and conduct routine safety inspections to provide clean and safe facilities and use areas.

E. Continue to work with the Koreshan Unity Alliance, the Citizen Support Organization (CSO) for the park. Encourage continued participation under established procedures for volunteers to solicit funds, grants, gifts and donations to aid in the restoration, maintenance, and interpretation of the site.

F. Continue to communicate concerns to the planning staff of Lee County and the FDOT on the impact from the widening of U.S. Highway 41 and encourage the incorporation of protective measures in the planning and decision making process in the visible and the audible vicinity of the historic site. 1.) Pursue funding to complete a cultural assessment of the US 41 boundary

including the historic entry feature before DOT widens this section of the road.

G. Monitor proposed changes to surrounding property, including development proposals, Comprehensive Plan amendments and zoning changes that may affect park resources, operations or visitor experience.

Management Coordination The park is managed in accordance with all applicable Florida Statutes and administrative rules. Agencies having a major or direct role in the management of the park are discussed in this plan.

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The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Forestry (DOF), assists Division staff in the development of wildfire emergency plans and provides the authorization required for prescribed burning. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC), assists staff in the enforcement of state laws pertaining to wildlife, freshwater fish and other aquatic life existing within park boundaries. In addition, the FFWCC aids the Division with wildlife management programs, including the development and management of Watchable Wildlife programs. The Department of State, Division of Historical Resources (DHR) assists staff to assure protection of archaeological and historical sites. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Office of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas (CAMA) aids staff in aquatic preserves management programs. The DEP Bureau of Beaches and Wetland Resources aids staff in planning and construction activities seaward of the Coastal Construction Line. In addition, the Bureau of Beaches and Wetland Resources aid the staff in the development of erosion control projects. Emphasis is placed on protection of existing resources as well as the promotion of compatible outdoor recreational uses.

Public Participation The Division provided an opportunity for public input by conducting a public workshop and an advisory group meeting. A public workshop was held on May 29, 2003. The purpose of this meeting was to present this draft management plan to the public. A DEP Advisory Group meeting was held on May 30, 2003. The purpose of this meeting was to provide the Advisory Group members the opportunity to discuss this draft management plan.

Other Designations Koreshan State Historic Site is not within an Area of Critical State Concern as defined in section 380.05, Florida Statutes. Currently it is not under study for such designation. The park is a component of the Florida Greenways and Trails System. All waters within the unit have been designated as Outstanding Florida Waters, pursuant to Chapter 62-302 Florida Administrative Code. Surface waters in this unit are also classified as Class III waters by DEP. The secondary parcels by the mouth of the Estero River are within the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve as designated under the Florida Aquatic Preserve Act of 1975 (section 258.35, Florida Statutes).

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RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMPONENT INTRODUCTION The Division of Recreation and Parks has implemented resource management programs for preserving for all time the representative examples of natural and cultural resources of statewide significance under its administration. This component of the unit plan describes the natural and cultural resources of the park and identifies the methods that will be used to manage them. The stated management measures in this plan are consistent with the Department’s overall mission in ecosystem management. Cited references are contained in Addendum 2. The Division’s philosophy of resource management is natural systems management. Primary emphasis is on restoring and maintaining, to the degree practicable, the natural processes that shape the structure, function and species composition of Florida’s diverse natural communities as they occurred in the original domain. Single species management may be implemented when the recovery or persistence of a species is problematic provided it is compatible with natural systems management. The management goal of cultural resources is to preserve sites and objects that represent all of Florida’s cultural periods as well as significant historic events or persons. This goal may entail active measures to stabilize, reconstruct or restore resources, or to rehabilitate them for appropriate public use. Because park units are often components of larger ecosystems, their proper management is often affected by conditions and occurrences beyond park boundaries. Ecosystem management is implemented through a resource management evaluation program (to assess resource conditions, evaluate management activities, and refine management actions), review of local comprehensive plans, and review of permit applications for park/ecosystem impacts. RESOURCE DESCRIPTION AND ASSESSMENT

Natural Resources Koreshan State Historic Site is located in southwestern Lee County, between Fort Myers and Bonita Springs in the community of Estero. It lies west of U.S. Highway 41, north of Corkscrew Road. Koreshan State Historic Site preserves the remains of a utopian, pioneer settlement that began in the year 1894. The community of 200 settlers called themselves the Koreshan Unity. They were led by an energetic and inspired leader named Dr. Cyrus Teed. With the death of Dr. Teed in 1908, the movement he founded began to decline, although members continued to live out their lives at the site until 1982. Topography The topography at Koreshan is low relief ranging from approximately 7.5 to 15.7 msl . The park occurs on the coastal lowlands topographic division and is a part of the southwestern slope physicographic zone. The upland site topography has been altered somewhat by road clearing, fire break maintenance. These features are relatively insignificant. Some of the roads are not paved. Other man-made alterations to park topography are in the form of several drainage ditches, borrow pits, and spoil mounds at the mouth of the Estero River. The drainage ditches are a component of the cultural landscape associated with the garden landscapes in the historic settlement. The borrow pits, found adjacent to the southern boundary of the park is associated with creation of the grade of Corkscrew Road. Geology Before the initial Pleistocene glacial melt, sea level lay approximately 82 meters (270 feet) above the present shoreline. Dry land on the Floridean Plateau was restricted to a few small

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islands lying in what is now Polk County, and another group near the Trail Ridge near Jacksonville. Subsequent sea-level fluctuations gradually left more of the Floridean Plateau exposed. The various elevations of the Pleistocene shorelines and the alternation of marine and freshwater beds in certain limestone and marl formations provide a record of sea level fluctuations during the great ice age. The advances and retreats of great ice sheets over the North American continent alternately raised and lowered the regional sea levels. In Florida that resulted in a variety of Pleistocene deposits including quartz sands, shell beds limestone and marl. In southern Florida, the strata of the Pleistocene are composed of the sands of marine terraces such as the Caloosahatchee, Anastasia, Fort Thompson, Key Largo Limestone and Miami formations. In addition to sand and clay deposits, Koreshan State Historic Site is underlain by the Anastasia Formation, coquinoid limestone. Soils overlying this limestone base have an average thickness of three feet and tend to be sandy mixed with marl. Soils Seven soil types have been identified at this unit (see Soils Map). These soil types are Pompano fine sand, Myakka fine sand, Boca fine sand, Pineada fine sand, Immokalee sand, Cocoa fine sand and Hallendale-Urban land complex. A detailed description of these soils is contained in Addendum 3. The soil profile at Koreshan State Historic Site has been altered in areas associated with the Koreshan’s garden features. The major soil disturbance is associated with the Koreshan ditches and the “sunken garden” landscape feature which extended into lower soil horizons and achieved a drainage system directed into the river. Soil erosion on the shorelines of riverine habitats is, in part, a natural phenomenon. The principle concern in public use areas is to ensure that the public does not affect the vegetation along the steep embankments of the natural shorelines or the man-made ditches. On a small scale, erosion of park soils can be minimized by one or a combination of the following methods: direct seeding of native grasses, planting of native vegetation, and maintenance of overlook structures and retaining wall. Placement of any additional recreational facilities must acknowledge the dynamic natural processes of riverine environments to minimize damage and destruction. Minerals There are no known minerals of commercial value at this unit. Hydrology The park is within the Estero River drainage basin. Koreshan State Historic Site has well drained soils. The most conspicuous drainage feature is the Estero River. Several ditches dug by the Koreshan Unity, for landscaping purposes, drain into the Estero River. These features are stabilized by vegetation growing along their banks. Surface water. Much of the soil is very porous with a corresponding high absorption rate. However, the principal concern in public use areas occurs during periods of high rainfall when the soil becomes saturated and is covered with a shallow layer of slowly moving water that is slow to disperse. Surface water flow associated with high rainfall events, flow north. Rainfall related surface water periodically affects recreational tent campers and increases the impacts of vehicle traffic on unpaved roadways. Small-scale impacts of rainfall events include erosion around the boat ramp area that can be corrected using best management practices with rip-rap. Natural Communities The system of classifying natural communities employed in this plan was developed by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI) FNAI Descriptions. The premise of this system is that physical factors, such as climate, geology, soil, hydrology and fire frequency generally

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determine the species composition of an area, and that areas which are similar with respect to these factors will tend to have natural communities with similar species compositions. Obvious differences in species composition can occur, despite similar physical conditions. In other instances, physical factors are substantially different, yet the species compositions are quite similar. For example, coastal strand and scrub--two communities with similar species compositions--generally have quite different climatic environments, and these necessitate different management programs. The park contains four distinct natural communities (see Natural Communities Map) in addition to ruderal and developed areas. Park specific assessments of the existing natural communities are provided in the narrative below. A list of plants and animals occurring in the unit is contained in Addendum 4. Scrubby flatwoods. The scrubby flatwoods community has been compromised, by placing much of the park's development within it. This severely restricts the use of fire, the traditional management tool, to maintain the community at an early successional stage. No part of this plant community is in an original condition due to these encroachments. Where possible, the park will use fire and mechanical treatments to control fuel loads and maintain early successional characteristics. The scrubby flatwoods community is well drained and dry during the wet season. Mesic flatwoods. This community was heavily invaded by melaleuca trees and downy rose myrtle that are being removed. Very little of this community remains in an original condition, however, though much of the original aspect has been restored. Approximately 12 acres of North Florida slash pines were planted in the park. Through prescribed burning, the pines have been thinned. The North Florida slash pines have suffered heavy mortality in recent years. They are being replaced with South Florida slash pines. Herbicide treatments, which have been successful in combating downy rose myrtle and melaleuca trees following prescribed fire and mechanical cutting, will continue as necessary to control reentrants. Much of the original mesic flatwoods was displaced by construction of buildings, landscaping and by horticultural endeavors of the Koreshans. Blackwater stream. The Estero River forms most of the northern boundary of the park. Tidal influence from Estero Bay extends into the park. Mangrove trees are commonly interspersed with the shoreline vegetation on the riverbanks. Species such as snook and mullet frequent the adjacent river waters. Manatees have been observed near the boat ramp during periods of high water. On the steep riverbanks, invasive plants including Brazilian pepper, leadtree and sanseveria have mixed with native plants. At sites where the sand bottom is exposed during low water, a relatively invasive plant population of umbrella sedge has become established. Efforts are made to remove exotic invasive vegetation and allow the native vegetation and natural vistas to become established. Estuarine tidal swamp. A small site adjacent to the Estero River is occupied by white mangrove, strangler figs and several fern species. It is inundated during extreme high tides and is uniquely different from other areas in the park. Ruderal and developed. Ruderal and developed areas include the settlement grounds where native vegetation was almost entirely replaced by ornamental exotics. Portions of the unit are maintained as mowed lawn. Until 1989, there were several extensive stands of melaleuca and eucalyptus trees in the park and it is unlikely that these areas can be completely restored, but a flatwoods aspect of low, predominantly herbaceous ground cover can be achieved. There is also a large area west of the historic settlement that reflects the Koreshan horticultural landscape and agricultural activities. Several areas of artifact scatter have been identified as well as old fence lines. Many of the ornamental plant

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species have spread throughout the area. These ornamentals tend to invade adjacent natural communities and require active management. Two man-made borrow pits were created in the southwestern zone of the park. The eastern most pit has a permanent open water aspect. It is of unknown depth with steep sides and a rectangular shape. Restoration to create natural contours for this feature is needed. The western most pit has a shallow aspect and has provided habitat for several exotic invasive pest plant species. Recent exotic removal efforts have re-created habitat which attracts wildlife. Designated Species Designated species are those that are listed by the Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FNAI), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC), and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDA) as endangered, threatened or of special concern. Addendum 5 contains a list of the designated species and their designated status for this park. Management measures will be addressed later in this plan. Several designated species occur within the site. With the exception of the gopher tortoise and the West Indian manatee, no specific measures beyond ordinary protection are required.The West Indian manatee is observed on an infrequent basis in the blackwater stream habitat of the Estero River adjacent to and flowing within the boundary of the park. Most of the gopher tortoise habitat at Koreshan has been surveyed for gopher tortoise burrows. There are 50 active and inactive burrows, yielding an estimate of 31 tortoises (assuming an occupancy rate of 61.5 percent as suggested in Cox et al. 1987, FGFWFC Nongame Wildlife Program Technical Report No. 4). If an additional zone that has not been surveyed has the same density of tortoises, there are an estimated 38 tortoises occupying natural habitat in the park. A minimum viable population of gopher tortoises requires 40-50 individuals, and may require many more animals in areas where environmental conditions are not always favorable (p. 28, Cox et al. 1987). Allowing for some variation in environmental conditions, it has been determined that Koreshan would need a minimum number of 60 individuals to maintain a perpetual viable population. Additional gopher tortoise habitat, located adjacent to the northwest corner of the park, is managed as the Vesta Newcomb Preserve. It is owned by the Florida Audubon Society. Special Natural Features The Estero River is the special natural feature of this unit. The historic flow of this river has been significantly altered since the time of Koreshan settlement with the construction of Interstate 75 and the resulting isolation of the river from its original headwaters. Although shallow, the river permitted access by large vessels carrying goods and supplies to the Koreshan settlement. A boatworks, maintained by the Koreshans, was located upstream from the park. The Estero River is a scenic recreational asset providing for shallow boat, canoe and kayak activities.

Cultural Resources Evaluating the condition of cultural resources is accomplished using a three part evaluative scale, expressed as good, fair, poor. These terms describe the present state of affairs, rather than comparing what exists against the ideal, a newly constructed component. Good describes a condition of structural stability and physical wholeness, where no obvious deterioration other than normal occurs. Fair describes a condition in which there is a discernible decline in condition between inspections, and the wholeness or physical integrity is and continues to be threatened by factors other than normal wear. A fair judgment is cause for concern. Poor describe an unstable condition where there is palpable, accelerating decline, and physical integrity is being compromised quickly. A resource in poor condition suffers obvious declines in physical integrity from year to year. A poor

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condition suggests immediate action to reestablish physical stability. The founding of the Koreshan Unity Settlement in Estero, Florida, was the continuation of a movement started in the town of Moravia, New York in 1880 by Dr. Cyrus R. Teed. He founded a post-Christian utopian community that had to survive an unfriendly and often hostile society. In its efforts to establish and maintain an environment favorable to the development and growth of its religious, scientific and cultural philosophies, the movement relocated to the Florida frontier in 1894. Much has been written about utopian communities, from Essenes to New Harmony. When people first dreamed of a state of perfection, the seed of utopianism was planted. The vision of this ideal has manifested in different ways and has been influenced by such diverse concepts as communism, celibacy, moral freedom, religiousness, communalism, secularism, and others. Criteria common to all of the utopian communities include the fact that they were groups of people who withdrew from normal interaction with the rest of society to act as a unit in meeting their common needs. Almost every community of this nature can be traced to an individual, usually of strong character, profound conviction of beliefs and the ability to motivate people, who were the inspiration and provided the dynamic leadership necessary for the development of the community. Dr. Cyrus R. Teed was that dynamic leader and steering force in this community. The Koreshan Unity described itself as a religious and fraternal commonwealth, naming its entire system of religious, scientific, and social beliefs, Koreshan Universology. The early development of this community is based on a religious illumination that Dr. Teed experienced while working as a medical doctor in Utica, New York during the winter of 1869-1870. This experience was of such magnitude to Dr. Teed that he continued to write and lecture on the subject for the rest of his life. For several years, Dr. Teed moved from town to town in New York, practicing medicine and spreading the word of this prophecy. He gained some of his most significant disciples during the 1870s, including Dr. and Mrs. A.W.K. Andrews, who later followed him to Florida. By 1886, Dr. Teed and his followers had moved to New York City. It was at this time that he was invited to Chicago to address a convention of the National Association of Mental Science. He so impressed the convention that he was elected president of the organization. He remained in Chicago, joined by his believers. His “Church Triumphant” attracted converts. An education institution called the “World’s College of Life” developed, and publication of the magazine, the Guiding Star, began in 1886. In early 1887, the Society Arch-Triumphant was organized with Mrs. Annie G. Ordway becoming president. Mrs. Ordway’s role in the Koreshan Unity was an integral part of its structure as Dr. Teed’s “dual-associate”. This role marks a significant dimension of Koreshanity as an important aspect of the social beliefs and their theory on women’s rights. The Koreshan Unity gave women the equality that they had been fighting for in the society around them. By 1888, a cooperative home for his college was established. This was to be the home where the Koreshan Unity would sprout from a group of religious socialists into a post-Christian utopian community. A print shop, the Guiding Star Publishing House was established. In 1889, the Guiding Star magazine was put to rest, replaced by the monthly Flaming Sword, under Dr. Teed’s editorship. Teed was still publishing material under the name Cyrus in 1889, but by 1891 he was calling himself Koresh. Ardent supporters working with Dr. Teed during this time period included Dr. Andrews, vice president of the College of Life, James H. Bubbett, secretary of the Guiding Star

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Publishing house and later Mrs. Evelyn Bubbett was it’s manager. Ulysses G. Morrow, a member of the Koreshan geodetic staff, developed a rectilineator (to measure the curvature of the earth) and was instrumental in conducting the scientific experiments regarding the configuration of the earth’s surface (the Koreshans believed the earth was a hollow sphere with life existing on the interior surface). These individuals proved to be prominent members as the community continued to develop. In December 1893, Dr. Teed, Mrs. Ordway, and two fellow members of the Koreshan Unity from Chicago visited the homestead of an elderly German settler, Gustave Damkohler in Lee County, Florida. This visit marked the beginning of the Koreshan Unity Settlement in Estero when Mr. Damkohler donated his property to join the group. Additional members traveled to Florida, and by mid-1894 the first permanent structure, the woman’s log house was constructed. Built almost totally from local materials and by Unity labor, it served as the first place of meeting as well as women dormitories. A second structure, also a log house was constructed at approximately the same time to house the male Unity members. Land continued to be cleared and crops were planted. In 1894, the editor of the Fort Myers Press visited and described a two-story dining hall in his publication. Fish and seafood were the major food staples obtained from the river and bay, and vegetables were grown in the gardens. The group was highly dependent on boats, the sloop, Ada, was their primary fishing vessel. An element of concern and one that directly affected the community’s initial growth, was an adequate supply of drinking water. A spring, utilized earlier by Damkohler and his family, had dried up by the time Dr. Teed and his followers arrived. Drinking water, according to Dr. Andrews, was brought in by cask on a wheelbarrow from a surface well out in the woods. Health concerns led the Koreshans to drill a deep well. Construction of additional structures was hampered by the unavailability of lumber. In December 1894, Dr. Teed bought a sawmill in Fort Myers. The mill was dismantled by the Koreshans, transported to Estero Island, and reassembled. The facilities on Estero Island included housing, a machine shop, boat ways and a post office. Supplies and mail were carried by boat to the main settlement along with lumber, which was processed at the sawmill. This mill, the first industry established by the Koreshan Unity, was destroyed by fire in December of 1896. Its destruction was a serious blow to the community and most of the workers moved to the mainland settlement. The community progressed with the addition of two barns, the dining hall, several minor sheds, member’s houses and a small one room store, which sold a few essentials to local people and travelers who using the trail which crossed the Estero River on a wooden bridge. At this time, the dining hall was used for dining, as a place of worship, and the location of the “sister’s” industrial departments. During 1896 and 1897 the Koreshan geodetic staff conducted rectilineator experiments on Naples beach. Their experimentation proved to their satisfaction that the surface of the earth was concave and demonstrated their theory of “Cellular Cosmogony” and demonstrated the “Koreshan Premise” which described a “hollow earth”. National publicity of these experiments and their claims of success attracted new attention and visitors to the Koreshan settlement. In 1896, work was started on the Children’s House, later referred to as the Founder’s House, and in 1897 the large, three-story Dining Hall, said to be the largest structure in Lee County. In 1902, a major decision was made by Teed and his followers to move all of the Koreshans to Estero. By 1903, the transfer of the colony from Chicago was complete. This

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influx brought the population to approximately 200. The arrival of so many exceeded the housing that was available. A few new members’ houses, the “brother’s and sister’s” log houses and the Dining Hall/Dormitory represented the total housing capability of the settlement. New structures were constructed starting in 1904. The Publishing House, which printed the Flaming Sword magazine, was started on the banks of the Estero River, east of the “trail”. The Planetary Court, built to house the seven managing women, was built at about the same time. The construction of the Old Store, a three-story structure on the river on the west side of the “trail” was also completed. The Old Store played a major role in the settlement’s growth. It served as a major commercial center for the Koreshans. The store sold various good to the public and travelers, and, as a retail outlet, was able to purchase goods not produced by the Koreshans at wholesale prices. Goods were traded and sold, produce from non-Koreshan settlers was purchased giving them needed cash. Boats came up the Estero River bringing supplies and carrying Koreshan-produced goods, all of which brought Koreshan and non-Koreshan together, not in beliefs, but in commerce. The Koreshan Settlement was incorporated in 1904, excluding lands not owned by the community. The newly incorporated town comprised one hundred and ten square miles, eighty-two square miles of land and twenty-eight of water. Of this, the Koreshan Unity owned approximately 7,500 acres. At this time, equipment brought from Chicago was installed in the completed Publishing House and publication of The Flaming Sword resumed. The Guiding Star Publishing House represented another major commercial venture for the settlement by printing jobs for clients in the community, Fort Myers and even Chicago. The quality was high and the Koreshans were not modest in stating that it was one of the best printing and binding operations in the state. The Unity also generated cash through other departments. The bakery, with an oven capacity of six hundred loaves of bread per day, was popular with the community. Boat building and related marine industries represented other commercial ventures. Construction of boats for the settlement gave them the means to transport goods manufactured by various settlement departments, to harvest food from the sea and to sell new and refurbished boats to the community. Another aspect of Koreshan life -- music -- played an important role in fostering good relations between the community of Fort Myers and Estero. Concerts were given by the “Koreshan Band,” both on the settlement grounds and in Fort Myers. The band performed on a floating raft at the bend of the river (Bamboo Landing) where a natural amphitheater existed. The musical practice periods were so loud that a building for the students was eventually built separate from the settlement. An orchestra was formed and played numerous concerts for the Koreshans, in the Art Hall and on the grounds. All major events at the settlement involved the musicians in the band and orchestra. Education also served an important role, not only for the children at the settlement, but also for the adult members and was considered an indispensable part of the Koreshan system. At this time, the Pioneer University of Koreshan Universology was established. Its classes were held in the newly constructed Art Hall, which was built by the students and their professors. The Art Hall played a major role in the settlement, being utilized for lectures, concerts and

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religious services. Musical and theatrical performances were given there, enjoyed by not only the Koreshans, but also the community at large. The Koreshan Unity Settlement, for the most part, was self-supporting. The Koreshans owned and operated a lumber mill, boat construction facility, country store, bakery, printing press, machine shop, blacksmith, laundry, and many other incidental operations. The Koreshan Unity’s prosperity and unusual beliefs caused resentment and prejudice from the citizens of Fort Myers. There was apparent jealously involved, and the increase in membership and size brought them into conflict with the people of Lee County. This conflict was due to their growing political influence on county politics. Their religious doctrine had little or no effect on the people of Lee County. However, when the Koreshans tried to exert their influence on local politics, the leaders of Fort Myers reacted to protect their power. Life in the settlement, in contrast to their relations with the local community, appeared to be happy and full activity. In addition to music, drama and dance presentations, and lectures were given. In 1907, a small zoo was created and contained a black bear, an eagle, opossum, three foxes, wildcat and a pair of otters. Picnics and parades were held several times a year, and twice yearly the birthdays of Dr. Teed (October 18th) and Mrs. Ordway (April 12th) were celebrated, being named the Solar (for Dr. Teed) and Lunar (for Mrs. Ordway) Festivals. Dr. Teed died peacefully on December 22, 1908 on Estero Island. Upon Dr. Teed's death, the Koreshan Unity's growth ceased and with the group's decline, conflict with Lee County political leaders ceased to exist. Financial failures seriously burdened the Unity. Members began to leave; first individuals and later entire groups and departments. In 1908-1910, a powerhouse/generator building and storage shed were constructed. The building was used to house the machinery and equipment required to generate electricity for the settlement and surrounding buildings. There is reference to a plan for the Koreshans to purchase a 90 horsepower boiler to install an electric power plant, in a July 1916 article in the Koreshan American Eagle newspaper. Directly to the east of the building, a water tower was built with a massive wooden framework standing 30 feet high. The presence of the water tower indicates the possible use of a steam engine. This water tower may have also been used to provide water pressure (gravity forced) to other buildings in the settlement. In June 1925, the Koreshan Unity ordered a new 80 horsepower diesel/crude oil engine from Fairbanks Morse of Beloit, Wisconsin. Before the installation of the diesel engine, the floor plan of the building was changed to accommodate the new equipment. The new floor plan incorporated an L shape and a higher section on the southeast wall was constructed to accommodate the engine. In addition, a large I beam was necessary for the lifting of the heavy engine parts during maintenance periods. This new engine would provide all the power needed to run the 50-kilowatt alternator to generate ample electricity for the Unity. The original diesel engine was used for this purpose until August 29, 1946, when Estero was hooked up with Florida Power and Light Company. This engine was sold to the Kaiser Brothers of Venice Florida to be used in their Ice Plant. Money from the sale of this equipment was needed to maintain the settlement. In 1910, a one-court tennis area was constructed by the settlement, reflecting the Unity’s involvement with all aspects of community life. A portion of this facility is still found in an open area near the bakery and the Vesta Newcomb cottage. In the early 1920s, a New Store was built to replace the Old Store, which had been damaged by a series of floods. The first floor contained a country store, and a restaurant,

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the Riverview Inn, both of which contributed needed revenue to the settlement. The second floor contained rooms for male settlement members. A small Koreshan Unity office was located in the southeast corner with access to the General Store. Several of the Koreshan members filled the role of Estero post master for many years. In 1937, a phone booth was constructed in the building. After the Old Store was replaced with the New Store, the structure continued to be utilized, as a post office, barber shop, warehouse and apartments for some of the members, until it burned to the ground in the summer of 1938. A gasoline service station was constructed in 1926 to the east of the Post Office to serve tourists traveling on the Tamiami Trail. In 1951, a post office was constructed from materials recovered when a storage shed (1901) was dismantled. The post office facilities in the New Store had become inadequate. When the building was closed as a post office in 1963, the building was converted to the office of the Koreshan Unity Settlement. The cultural garden landscape was also an important feature of the Koreshan Unity settlement throughout its existence. Many references are made to the Unity gardens and various plantings in issues of the Flaming Sword magazine and the American Eagle newspaper. Ornamental plants were maintained in the garden landscape and plant materials were often used in floral arrangements at various Koreshan events. Koreshan members worked in a horticultural department that introduced plants to the Unity grounds and propagated vegetation for sale as well. As years passed, residents of the Koreshan Unity settlement gave special attention to the grounds. The result was complex landscaping complete with ornamental concrete sculptures, fountains, walkways, decorative bridges, benches and park areas. From 1908 through 1961, the Koreshan Unity membership steadily declined, buildings fell into a state of disrepair and land holdings were sold to support the existing members. In November 1961, the Koreshan Unity transferred portions of their property to the State of Florida. The purpose was to preserve and interpret, for the present and future generations, information of historical significance. Pursuant to the authority contained in the Historic Sites Act of 1935, as amended, and in the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, the National Park Service, Department of Interior listed the Koreshan Unity Settlement Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. This listing by the Department of Interior was effective on May 4, 1979. Pursuant to the Lee County Land Development code, Chapter 22, Historic Preservation, Koreshan State Historic Site/Koreshan Settlement (HD District 2000-06-01) was designated as a historic resource on July 19, 2000. The portion of the Koreshan Unity Settlement Historic District found in Koreshan State Historic Site is located within a 40-acre parcel adjacent to U.S. Highway 41. The District extends to the east, across U.S. Highway 41 on to grounds currently managed by The World College of Life. An orderly listing of the cultural resources that physically remain in the Koreshan Unity Settlement within the physical boundaries of Koreshan State Historic Site may best be described chronologically. In the 1990s, Koreshan’s scope of interpretation was re-evaluated and adjusted from its original scope of 1905-1908, to a one-hundred year period, from 1882-1982, that encompasses events from the time Damkohler built his cottage until the death of Hedwig Michel.

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Damkohler House. 1882-to present, also known as the Medical Building or Pioneer Cabin. It was the residence of Gustave Damkohler, the original settler of the property, which was later to become the Koreshan Unity Settlement. The Damkohler Cottage is very important to the Settlement, as it was the first place of residence for the Koreshans. This building represents a rare survival of a pioneer board and batten cottage. The cottage was built by Damkohler approximately 12 years before the arrival of the Koreshans. The structure was moved to the present location, from its original placement, reportedly about 100 yards west of where it now sits, in 1928. When Teed first visited Damkohler, it consisted of one room with a sleeping loft and porch. Construction was of basic wood frame with vertical wood siding. The structure was originally covered with a palmetto-thatched roof, later changed to tin, and was furnished at the time of Dr. Teed’s arrival with rough wooden boxes and homemade furniture. The structure was stabilized and restored in 1994. It is currently used as an interpretive feature for viewing by park visitors. The one-room building is furnished with period furniture to represent Gustave Damkohler’s home circa 1894. Electric service in the form of a single exterior outlet box was added in 1999 to facilitate maintenance and cleaning of the structure and contents. Hurricane and termite protection, water service and fire alarm/ suppression systems need to be considered for this structure. . A new Plexiglas exhibit barrier is currently being implemented in the cottage in addition to the existing wood railing. This will provide for enhanced security and protection from the elements as well as a better view of the exhibit by the visitor. Founder’s House. 1895–present, was also called Children’s House, Children’s School, Master’s House, Brother’s House and Ordway’s House. This is a two-story structure, centrally located on the grounds. It is one of the major structures of the settlement. While reference sources disagree as to its original function, it has evolved in history to be known as the Founder’s House. Originally constructed in 1895, the building has undergone more modifications than any other structure in the settlement. It sits on masonry piers. The basic building consisted of a two-story structure on conventional wood frame balloon construction, with its longer elevation occurring on the north and south sides. The exterior has horizontal wood lap siding, with a wood shake/shingle roof. These elevations, in turn, had porches, eight to ten feet in depth, running the length of the structure. The exterior was covered with horizontal wood siding possibly with a cypress shingle roof. The earliest known view of the Founder’s House is an Edith Campbell drawing, showing the building as it looked from the south side of the Estero River, the north and west elevations are illustrated in the drawing dated September 6, 1899. It is an interesting note that the Campbell drawing, and the other drawings that show portions of the building, identifies it as the Children’s House, a clue as to its initial usage. In 1908, the porches were removed and extensive renovation involving creation of a series of imitation brownstone walls and arches, intended to enclose the old building, began. This renovation also included the creation of a circular tower or turret on the northwest corner that was 30 feet in diameter. The death of Dr. Teed appears to have stopped the extensive remodeling then in progress. After continued remodeling projects, a structural assessment was conducted in 1969, and it was restored to the original configuration in 1992. Remains of the 1908 walls and circular tower remain near the northern face of the building. Renovation included installation of interior and exterior lighting, a security system and electrical service to allow for interpretive facilities.

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The building is currently used as an open building for visitors. Indoor exhibits consist of enlarged copies of historic photographs, a model of the Koreshan sloop, Ada, and a three-dimensional map diorama of the park. A three-dimensional diorama of Mound Key, exhibit cases for rotating exhibitions of Koreshan “ephemera”, and an exhibit recreating Dr. Teed’s living area are currently in progress. The diorama of Mound Key will serve to interpret the island to visitors who are not able to actually visit the island. An interpretive fixture consisting of a cabinet, a television and DVD player provides a 10-minute video about the Koreshans for visitors. The video is of good quality and content; however, it is rather outdated. Updating the video should be a priority. The upper level of the building is closed to public access. A baiting system for monitoring subterranean termites is in place, however, fire/alarm suppression systems need to be added to provide adequate protection for this structure. Planetary Court. 1904 – present, was originally constructed as housing for the seven ”sisters” who managed the Koreshan departments and one “brother” who was responsible for the physical upkeep of the building. Meetings to direct the day-to-day affairs of the settlement also occurred in this building. It is a three-story wooden frame structure with horizontal siding, that was installed around 1914. Prior to 1914, the exterior was covered simply with a heavy draft paper, to eliminate drafts and protect against insects. In 1921, a hurricane moved this building off its original pier foundation some six feet to the west. A porch, occurring at both levels, went around the building on all sides, with a simple open railing on the second floor. The third level, a cupola, which was originally destroyed during a hurricane, has been reconstructed as part of the building’s restoration due to be completed in July of 2002. The interior of the Planetary Court was divided into eight rooms with a central hall that housed an ornate wood stairway to the second floor. The rooms all have exterior exposure providing excellent cross ventilation and air circulation, illustrating early Koreshan awareness of environmental design and indigenous architecture. A wooden cistern, fed by roof rain gutters provided freshwater but is not connected to an interior plumbing system. The Planetary Court was used as a residence by the last Koreshan Unity President, Miss Hedwig Michel. Several renovations occurred which are not historically accurate. The Restoration Approach and Preservation Plan for the Planetary Court was completed and approved in 1996, and interior and exterior restoration of the building is pending completion in July 2002. After the completion of the restoration and re-installation of exhibits, the Planetary Court will be open to the public during guided tours of the settlement and/or when a docent is present. At other times, the interior of the building can be viewed through the windows from the first floor porch. The second floor is restricted to authorized park staff only. Termite protection systems are needed to protect this structure. Electric, water, and a hurricane shutter system are in place, and fire and security systems will be operational upon completion of the restoration. Bakery. 1903/1904 – present, with a 500-600-loaf capacity, produced 200-300 loaves of bread per day, some being sold to local people. It is a two-story wood frame structure, which housed ”sister’s” and guests in four dormitory rooms on the second floor. At one time, a shower had been installed on the second floor. The large, first floor room has structural wood columns at its interior, supporting the second floor, with a concrete floor slab at grade. This structure is not raised on piers. The exterior of the bakery was covered with horizontal wood siding and a cypress shingle roof, later changed to a tin roof.

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Connected to the south were the bake ovens, and at the northwest corner was located a wooden rain-fed cistern. Newer wood siding had been installed on the exterior wall, removing any visual trace of the connection between the oven structure and the bakery. The bakery ovens, 1903-mid 1930s, were a small room, approximately 15’ X 20’. It was of masonry construction with an application of wood siding going from a point four feet above grade to the roof. The stone was collected locally from the settlement grounds. There is no apparent explanation for the removal of the ovens other than a gradual disuse as the population of the settlement declined. A formal restoration approach and preservation plan needs to be addressed in a historic structure report for this building. The ovens should be reconstructed and the original cypress shingle roof and appropriate doors on the ground floor should be restored. The original finish on the exterior siding should be verified. The building should be provided with adequate electrical power and water service to facilitate maintenance and proposed interpretive facilities. A fire alarm/suppression and security system should also be added as well as a termite protection system. The bakery is accessible to the public through the southeast doorway. A wooden rail barrier restricts overall public access. A new plexiglass barrier, similar to that on the east side of the Vesta Newcomb Cottage, should be installed to replace the wooden rail. This would provide for heightened security, protect the exhibit from the outside elements, and provide improved viewing of the exhibit. Collections displayed on the first floor can be viewed from this location. The second floor is limited to authorized park staff. Membership cottage. 1903 – present, is the only remaining structure characteristic of several that were constructed as housing for residents of the settlement. The structure is of typical wood frame vernacular with vertical rough sawn wood siding, gabled ends, and formerly had a wood shingle roof. The roof was later replaced with the existing metal roof. Two steps lead to a small porch with an overhang at the front door; a former bathroom remains as a side room on the west side. The building is in poor condition and a formal historic structures report is needed for this structure, soon. The building is in an extremely deteriorated condition and placement of foundation piers is inadequate. Restoration will require most of the historical material to be replaced. The roof should be replaced with the original wood shingles. The building also needs to be provided with water and electric service to facilitate maintenance and to provide for fire alarm and security systems. Hurricane and termite protection need to be addressed as well. Large machine shop. 1904-present, is a one-story wood frame structure, of irregular configuration, it contained the steam power equipment that served the adjacent laundry. It housed, in addition to the steam equipment, engine lathes, drill presses, shapers, a power metal saw, grinding machines and emery wheels, a forge and brazing tools. Reflecting the inventive character of Unity settlers, several special tools and engines were designed and constructed in this facility, including a marine gas engine with which they contemplated using for manufacturing purposes. This is an open structure with windows on the east and west faces. The original wood shingle roof and roof element has been replaced with a metal roof. Deteriorated corrugated metal and wood framing have been replaced as needed. Elements on the north and south walls have also been removed leaving voids that have exposed the building to the elements. Placement of the artifacts within the structure has lessened the impact of weathering; however, susceptibility to insects is unavoidable. “Boring bees” have specifically been a problem in the structure—leaving holes in portions

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of the framework and in some wood artifacts. A historic structures report is needed on this building, which will describe a formal restoration and preservation plan, most importantly, taking into consideration the need to reconstruct walls on the north and south ends to enclose the structure—the laundry was attached on the north side enclosing that end. Fire alarm/suppression, security, hurricane and termite protection systems need to be addressed. The laundry. 1903 – 1950s wood framed one-story structure was attached to the north wall of the large machine shop. The laundry was powered by steam power. The drying was accomplished by the use of a centrifugal machine that made 3000 revolutions a minute, and extracted water from its capacity of clothes in three minutes. All machines were set on solid stone foundations made in the Koreshan’s stone and sidewalk department. The room was kept cool by the use of revolving fans made in the machine shop. Six people -- settlement members -- worked in the laundry doing all of the laundry work for 200 members of the Unity. The structure was removed in the 1950s. The original stone foundations supporting the machinery are in place, and the roofline can be identified on the large machine shop building. The features associated with the laundry need to be preserved and interpreted as part of the Large Machine Shop complex. An archaeological test dig was completed at the laundry site in 2000 in an attempt to establish the perimeter of the former building. A kiosk has also been installed on the site interpreting the former structure for visitors. Small machine shop. 1905 – present, is a small, one-story building, located to the east of the Large Machine Shop.It housed a workshop used for the manufacturing of small special tools, kitchen items and clock and watch repair. It is a typical settlement wood frame building with horizontal wood siding. It was covered, in 1989, with a roll rubberized roofing over a unique bowed roof. The bowed sheathing on the roof is visible from the interior. The original roof is believed to have had a cypress shingle roof, common on structures in the settlement. The building has recently been leveled (1998), with the addition of structure members and concrete piers under the floor. In 2001, metal flashing was added above the north windows to temporarily mitigate any further water damage until restoration can be accomplished.A plexiglass barrier was also added to one south window as an experimental, temporary stabilization & mitigation measure. This building needs an historic structures report to address a restoration approach and preservation plan. As with the several other structures, this building needs electric and water supply systems added to facilitate maintenance and fire alarm/suppression, security, hurricane and termite protection systems added. A new plexiglass exhibit barrier is currently being installed in the small machine shop to replace the existing wood railings. This will provide for enhanced security and protection from the elements as well as a better view of the exhibit by the visitor. Art Hall. 1905–present, was constructed during the period when the settlement reached its peak. It is a one-story wood frame building. Its exterior is surfaced with horizontal wood siding and, similar to other settlement structures of that period, its roof is hand-split cypress shingles. A covered porch, originally eight feet in width, occurred on the north, east and south sides of the building. The porch roof is metal. The flat roof element covering the porch is supported structurally by a series of wood braces and counter braces, which play an important role in the aesthetic appearance of the building. Originally, the roof had a small secondary roof or “monitor”, which served as an air vent, which has recently been restored.In addition, the roof shingles have been replaced with cedar shake

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shingles and, tin on the flat roof element. The Art Hall is elevated above ground level approximately 18”, as are most settlement buildings, and supported structurally on a series of piers. These piers were, in turn, resting on stone indigenous to the site, but were later replaced with concrete, after construction of the settlement concrete works. The interior is open with no columns obstructing the space. The floor is tongue and groove oak strip, which was refurbished in 1989. A mechanical and air conditioning system was installed in 1969. Lighting fixtures provide fair lighting, but need to be replaced. Blinds were installed in 1995 to protect the collections from the damaging effects of UV light. A raised stage occurs at the west end of the room, behind which is a narrow “backstage” area, originally utilized for dressing and other related activities associated with the numerous theatrical and musical performances given by settlement members. The Art Hall, with a seating capacity of 300, was utilized for lectures, concerts, entertainment, and education and was the center for all religious activity. In later years, the Art Hall was used by the community of Estero, during elections, as a polling place. Additionally, the building contains some 40 paintings by Douglas Arthur Teed, son of Dr. Teed, which had been purchased by the Koreshan Unity in 1905 for $4000. (As of 5/2002, the paintings are in museum storage due to the Art Hall roof restoration). The Pioneer University of Koreshan Universology, established in 1904, included within its curriculum what were considered to be “useful trades”, such as construction, pattern making, electrical, mechanical, stone construction, as well as a music department and an art department. It was the professors and students of the university who built the Art Hall and who subsequently held their classes and meetings there. Due to the roof restoration project, the Art Hall is closed and vacant. Due to water damage to the ceiling and walls in April 2002, the building is closed indefinitely. A special category grant funding for the second phase of the restoration, to include replacing and relocating the HVAC system, ceiling repairs and stabilization, porch restoration and ADA lift installation is being sought. The Art Hall has a fire alarm, a security system and a climate controlled environment.The air conditioning system is anticipated to be relocated to the backstage area of the building in order to restore the historic accuracy of the ceiling, provide for ease of maintenance, and decrease the structural load of the HVAC on the building.Accessible restroom facilities were designed and added in 1996. As part of the historic porch restoration, the restrooms are tentatively scheduled to be relocated to the Art Hall parking lot.A fire suppression system, and hurricane and termite protection systems are a necessity. Electric generator building. 1908-present, also know as the "power house", is a large structure of wood frame construction. It was built in the early 1900s and eventually housed the electrical generating equipment of the settlement. Directly to the east of the building is the foundation of a water tower that originally stood 30 feet high. The structure appears to have been constructed with corrugated metal sides and roof, and may represent the first structure of that type in the settlement. The electrical equipment, purchased in the north by the Koreshan Unity, was shipped to the site and was generating electricity for the settlement buildings in the 1920s. While portions of the equipment remain, the majority was sold by the settlement in the 1930s and 40s when money was needed to maintain the cooperative. Used primarily as a storage area for furniture at the time the park was created, the furniture has since been removed. The original electrical generator and alternator are still in place. In 1995, a flywheel diesel engine, of the same model (four years newer) as the original

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engine, was located in Belle Glade, Florida, where it was used from 1929 until the 1970s. This engine ran an irrigation pump for the sugarcane fields. The system has been restored to the specifications of the original engine as installed in 1925. Concrete structural features outside the structure were identified, stabilized and restored for use as fuel containment and water cooling systems. Additional equipment, as per original specifications, was acquired (primarily through donation) and placed in the original positions. Corrugated metal and wooden structural members of the building have been replaced or stabilized. A historic structures report is needed for this building to document the structural features and additional restoration/preservation needs. A water system is in place outside of the building. Electrical, fire alarm/suppression, security, hurricane, and termite protection systems are also needed. Storage shed. 1910–present, is located to the west of the Electrical Generator Building. It is constructed of log (peeled cypress and pine) posts and wood framing with corrugated metal roof and three sides. While its actual date of construction is unknown, it is assumed to have been constructed in approximately 1910, and to have served as a covered site for the settlement grounds equipment. The building is currently utilized by the park, for storage of wood, plumbing supplies, fencing, a wood stove, imitation brownstone (of Koreshan origin) and other miscellaneous materials used in park maintenance. Ideally, a historic structure should not be used as storage for park materials or artifacts. The area directly in front of the shed has a wood fence enclosing the storage area and is secured with a locked gate. A portion of the building has been enclosed as a locked storage site. The building should be included in the historic structure report for the Generator Building. The fence is not part of the historic structure; the historic structure report should address removal of the fence, perhaps, as well as the locked storage area. Vesta Newcomb cottage. 1920 – present. This structure was originally constructed on Corkscrew Road (called Immokolee Road. at the time). It was purchased by Lou Staton, a settlement member, and moved to the northeast corner of U.S. Highway 41 and Corkscrew Road. One side was used as his residence & the other side for his barbershop business. In the 1930s, it was moved by the members to its current location west of the Bakery and utilized as housing, presumably for Staton, then, later, Newcomb after Staton’s death in 1950. It is constructed of wood frame, horizontal wood lap siding and was originally covered with a wood shingle roof, later replaced with metal. The metal roof runs parallel to the entry. The building is accessed by a pair of doors that open onto a concrete stoop. A fixed awning has been restored over the entry to match earlier photographs. Its construction is typical of settlement buildings and since it was built outside the settlement, there is a suggestion that construction in the settlement influenced the community outside. An exhibit, recreating the sitting room of Vesta Newcomb, has been installed on the east side of the cottage. Miss Newcomb arrived in the settlement in 1894, when she was 15 years old, and resided in the cottage from approx. 1950 until her death in 1974 at the age of 95. To complete the exhibit’s interpretation, the west side of the cottage should also be restored to interpret Vesta’s bedroom, bath, and shower, along with re-introducing the doorway that existed in the dividing wall. To the southeast of the entry stairway, a kiosk was installed interpreting Vesta’s life and the history of the cottage. An historic structures report is needed for this building to document the structural features and additional restoration/preservation needs. A water system, electrical, fire alarm/suppression, security, hurricane and termite protection systems need to be added to this building. New store. 1920s – present. This structure was built to replace the Old Store, which had

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been damaged by a series of floods. Its construction, stucco over a wood frame, was the first of its kind to be built at the settlement. The structure, two stories in height, originally had an ornate entry canopy facing the road. The canopy was removed in 1956, along with the front eight inches of the building, when the State Road Department was anticipating the widening of U.S. Highway 41. The east face of the building has asbestos shingles. The first floor contained a general store, occupying a third of the floor, and a restaurant -- the Riverview Inn -- contributing needed revenue to the settlement, with the balance of the first floor used for storage of goods. The second floor contained rooms for male settlement members and was accessible both from the interior of the store, at the east, and from a stairwell on the exterior, at the west. A small Koreshan Unity office was located in the southeast corner with access to the General Store. Both the restaurant and the general store were closed by the settlement in 1963, because of the difficulty in obtaining working help, and because of declining revenue. The structure is currently utilized to store furniture and historical materials removed from the Founder’s House during restoration. There is currently no water service in this building. One electrical outlet has been installed inside a small addition under the access stairs on the west side of the building, to provide power for maintenance equipment. The roof of the structure has been repaired, and windows have been repaired and replaced. This building is structurally unsound, much of the baseplate material and lower studs attached to the baseplate have deteriorated extensively. An historic structure report and a preservation plan have been completed, and a grant for restoration is being sought. The plan calls for reconstructing the façade facing U.S. Highway 41 and re-instituting a store (gift shop) on the first floor along with food preparation and dressing facilities for weddings and other events. The plan for the second floor calls for adaptive reuse as staff office space and lounge area. The building should be rewired for electric, re-plumbed for water service, and fire alarm/suppression, security, hurricane and termite protection systems installed during the restoration process. Historic grounds. By 1904, work on the landscape and grounds around the main buildings had been completed. An extensive tropical park was planned as a setting for the principal buildings of the town. For several weeks 20 laborers worked under the direction of some of the settlers digging ravines for drainage and using the dirt to create elevated mounds and terraces. Leveled paths and drives were laid out and paved with crushed shell in 1905. It was during this concerted work that the sunken gardens were

KORESHAN STATE HISTORIC SITE Koreshan... · 2019. 12. 19. · Koreshan State Historic Site as a...

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